Photochromic molecular heat exchange medium

Abstract

A heat exchange medium is disclosed which utilizes a change in molecular configuration of photochromic compounds when they are exposed to light. Further, by the addition of the photochromic compound as a side chain to an organic polymer, the polymer can also be induced to change configuration and absorb larger amounts of heat.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A heat transfer medium changing its molecular configuration when stimulated by heat or light to capture or release heat, comprising; a photochromic molecule stimulated by heat or light to change configuration, an organic polymer molecule and, a solvent means,   wherein the photochromic molecule is present in an amount of at least 4 mol % based on the combination of the photochromic molecule and the organic polymer molecule, and further wherein said photochromic molecule is chemically bonded to said organic polymer molecule.   
     
     
       2. A heat transfer medium, consisting of the photochromic molecule, in a concentration of at least a 40 mol %, in a solvent means.